The Victorian Government has announced the start of two key studies into the proposed Hastings Port development.

 

The key studies will examine the Westernport area, its natural environment and final port design.

 

State Minister for Ports, Denis Napthine, said the studies are critical for the future delivery of the port while ensuring that environmental best practice is followed.

 

“The three studies consisting of a hydrodynamic model, ecological risk management assessment and port design options will lay the foundations for the future expansion of the Port of Hastings," Dr Napthine said.

 

“The studies are essential to meet the Coalition Government’s commitment to protect the environment while planning for the development of this much needed additional port capacity to handle the growth in Victoria’s imports and exports.

 

“Victoria’s freight task is expected to massively increase by 2035 so we are taking action now to safeguard this industry which is the corner stone of our economy and are on track to deliver Victoria’s second container terminal within the next 10-15 years,” Dr Napthine said.

 

The key studies include:

  • development of a hydrodynamic model for Western Port – this study will examine current and tidal flows within the port and identify the possible impacts of port development on the existing environment;
  • ecological risk management assessment – this study will examine the potential impacts on the natural environment and identify ways to avoid or mitigate risk; and
  • assessment of different port design configurations – this study will provide port design options with consideration of potential environmental impacts and provide a basis for the Port Development Strategy.